Grilled Elote Corn with Chili Lime: A Flavor Explosion

Name: Grilled Elote Corn with Chili Lime
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh corn on the cob; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup queso fresco (crumbled); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

Published: July 2, 2025

by Liora

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Grilled elote corn with chili lime is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering.
The explosion of flavors—from sweet to spicy—creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Its vibrant presentation makes it visually stunning on any plate, and it’s versatile enough to accompany various dishes or stand alone as a mouthwatering snack.

Ingredients for Grilled elote corn with chili lime

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Corn on the Cob: Choose plump ears with bright green husks and moist silk for the best flavor.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps achieve that perfect char while enhancing the natural sweetness of the corn.
Chili Powder: Go for your favorite blend; it adds that essential heat we all crave.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed provides a tangy twist that balances out the richness beautifully.
Mayonnaise: This creamy element coats the corn perfectly and helps other toppings stick.
Queso Fresco: Crumbled on top, this cheese adds creaminess and an authentic Mexican touch.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves offer a burst of herbaceous freshness to each bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Grilled elote corn with chili lime

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill

Fire up your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using charcoal, let those coals turn white hot before you get grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

Husk the fresh corn and remove all those pesky silk threads. Rinse them under cool water to ensure they’re clean and ready for grilling. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Step 3: Brush with Olive Oil

Lightly brush each ear of corn with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and enhances flavor—because who doesn’t want more flavor?

Step 4: Grill Time

Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Turn them every few minutes until they’re charred evenly—about 10-15 minutes will do. Keep an eye on them; nobody likes burnt offerings!

Step 5: Mix Up Your Sauce

While the corn is grilling, mix together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and seasonings in a bowl until smooth. It should look like something you’d want to dive into headfirst.

Step 6: Dress It Up

Once your corn is perfectly grilled and has those beautiful char marks, transfer it to a platter. Slather on that divine sauce generously before sprinkling queso fresco and cilantro over top for added flair.

Serve your grilled elote corn immediately while it’s still warm, letting everyone know they’re about to experience summer heaven!

You Must Know

Grilled elote corn with chili lime is a flavor explosion that transforms any gathering into a fiesta.
With its vibrant colors and spicy kick, this dish not only pleases the palate but also makes for a stunning centerpiece at your summer BBQs.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high. Grill the corn until it’s charred and tender, then brush on the chili lime butter while it’s still hot for maximum flavor absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chili powder for smoked paprika or add crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra creamy twist. Optional add-ins like fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of cotija can elevate your grilled elote.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover grilled elote in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it back on the grill for a few minutes or microwave briefly until warm.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh, in-season corn for the sweetest flavor possible.
Soak your corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling to ensure it stays moist.
Experiment with different spices to personalize the heat level to your taste.

Sharing my first experience with grilled elote brings back memories of my neighbor’s summer block party—everyone raved about it! That day, I learned that nothing beats good corn and great company.

FAQs :

What is Grilled Elote Corn with Chili Lime?

Grilled elote corn with chili lime is a popular Mexican street food that features fresh corn on the cob grilled to perfection. The corn is typically slathered in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, and spices, then topped with chili powder and cheese. creamy spinach artichoke dip This dish offers a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it a favorite at summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings.

How do you prepare the corn for grilling?

To prepare corn for grilling, start by selecting fresh ears of corn. Husk the corn and remove all silk strands. Soaking the corn in water for about 30 minutes before grilling can help keep it moist and prevent burning. After soaking, you can grill the corn directly on the grill grates or wrap it in foil for a more tender outcome. Cooking time usually ranges from 10 to 15 minutes.

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

While fresh corn yields the best flavor and texture for grilled elote corn with chili lime, you can use frozen corn if necessary. Thaw the frozen kernels first and consider grilling them in a grill basket to achieve that smoky flavor. fresh fruit mix for lunch Keep in mind that using fresh corn will significantly enhance your dish’s overall taste.

What are some variations of Grilled Elote Corn with Chili Lime?

There are many delicious variations of grilled elote corn with chili lime. You can experiment by adding different cheeses like feta or cotija for added creaminess. Some people enjoy adding crumbled bacon or herbs like cilantro for an extra kick. Additionally, try adjusting the level of chili powder or lime juice according to your taste preferences.

Conclusion for Grilled Elote Corn with Chili Lime :

Grilled elote corn with chili lime is a vibrant dish that embodies the essence of summer flavors. By following simple preparation steps and using fresh ingredients, you can create this delightful treat at home. Remember that experimenting with various toppings and spices can personalize your dish to suit your taste. Enjoy this mouthwatering recipe at your next outdoor gathering or barbecue! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.

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